The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car for a New Zealand Road Trip: Tips and Hidden Gems

You know those moments when you’re on a road trip and you stumble upon a place so beautiful, it’s like you’ve entered a hidden realm? That’s New Zealand’s South Island for you. If you’re thinking about renting a car and exploring this slice of paradise, you’re in for a treat. Buckle up, because I’m about to take you through everything you need to know for the ultimate New Zealand road trip, complete with tips, hidden gems, and those lesser-known scenic routes that’ll make your journey unforgettable.

Why Rent a Car in New Zealand?

Let’s get this out of the way: renting a car in New Zealand is the best decision you’ll make for your trip. Public transport can be limited, and the real magic of New Zealand lies in the places that buses and trains just don’t reach. With a rental car, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, take those spontaneous detours, and stop wherever the view takes your breath away.

Getting Started: Tips for Renting a Car

1. Book in Advance

Don’t wait until the last minute to book your rental car. New Zealand is a popular destination, and the best deals go fast. Discover Cars is a great place to rent cars on a budget in New Zealand. 

2. Choose the Right Car

Consider the type of trip you’re planning. If you’re sticking to main roads, a standard car will do just fine. But if you’re planning to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, opt for a 4WD or SUV. Discover Cars offers a variety of options to suit your needs.

3. Understand the Road Rules

New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road. If you’re not used to it, take some time to familiarize yourself with the road rules. Also, be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially in mountainous areas.

Ideal Itineraries and Hidden Gems

Now, let’s dive into the fun part: the itineraries and hidden gems that will make your road trip epic.

1. Christchurch to Queenstown: The Classic Route

Start your journey in Christchurch or Queenstown. You can do this itinerary either way as both cities have airports, just depends on your route and the flight prices. 

Stops include: 

Milford Sound 

Wanaka 

Lake Tekapo

Mount Cook 

Want a detailed itinerary? Check out my full blog post here. 

2. The Southern Scenic Route: For the Adventurous

If you’re up for something different, take the Southern Scenic Route from Dunedin to Invercargill. This lesser-known route is packed with hidden gems. Start in Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and the steepest street in the world.

From Dunedin, drive to the Catlins. This region is a treasure trove of waterfalls, wildlife, and rugged coastlines. Don’t miss Nugget Point Lighthouse, Purakaunui Falls, and Curio Bay, where you can see fossilized trees.

Continue to Invercargill, the southernmost city in New Zealand. It’s the gateway to Stewart Island, a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. 

3. West Coast Wonders: Off the Beaten Path

For those who crave the wild, rugged beauty of New Zealand, the West Coast is where it’s at. Start in Nelson and drive down to Westport. The drive itself is an adventure, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

Punakaiki, home of the Pancake Rocks, is a must-see. These limestone formations are layered like – you guessed it – pancakes, and the blowholes are impressive on a rough day.

Further south, make your way to the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. You can hike up to the glacier or take a helicopter tour for an unforgettable experience.

Final Road Trip Tips

1. Plan Your Stops

Don’t just drive from point A to point B. Plan to stop often and explore. The journey is just as important as the destination. I like to budget about the driving time plus 50% to accommodate plenty of stops. 

2. Stay Flexible

Have a rough itinerary, but stay flexible. Some of the best experiences come from unplanned detours and spontaneous decisions.

3. Pack Smart

New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, a good rain jacket, and sturdy walking shoes.

Ready to Hit the Road?

New Zealand’s South Island is calling. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you’ll discover hidden gems and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Book your car, plan your route, and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime!